The Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority, NEPZA, says it will take tougher action against illegal importation of containers into free trade zones.

NEPZA Managing Director, Dr. Olufemi Ogunyemi, in a statement on Tuesday in Abuja, says strict adherence to regulations in the zones is not optional. The statement was issued by the Authority’s Head of Corporate Communications, Dr. Martins Odeh.

‎Ogunyemi says the free trade zone license is a legal obligation, and effective immediately, the Authority will intensify inspections, scrutinize documents, work with enforcement agencies, and apply full penalties under the law against operators who circumvent lawful procedures.

He says illegal importation undermines lawful commerce and erodes public confidence, adding that the majority of operators are compliant and contribute to the economy. He says enforcement will target only those who break the rules, not the compliant majority.